Bordeaux's Chateaux Rivers and Wine

River Cruise Itinerary

1

UK to Bordeaux

Depart on your scheduled flight to Bordeaux. Upon arrival you will be met and transferred to your ship. Take a moment to settle into your comfortable cabin and enjoy a welcome cocktail with the crew before dinner.

Dinner

2

Bordeaux to Pauillac

After a morning cruising along the Garonne River, you will dock at Pauillac, and begin a tour of the prestigious wine-growing region of Medoc. Favoured by a mild, humid microclimate, this region produces some of the world's most sought-after red wines. The trail will take you along the famous Chateaux Route, past rolling valleys, verdant fields and the wine estates and elegant castles of Saint Julien, Margaux, Lafite-Rothschild and Latour. With stops along the route, sample the region's exquisite wines and discover why they are revered by connoisseurs across the globe.

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

3

Pauillac to Blaye

Set sail this morning, passing through the Gironde Estuary before arriving at the village of Blaye. Here you will embark on an excursion to the momentous Citadel of Blaye, nestled on the banks of the Gironde River. Founded in the 17th century, this UNESCO World Heritage Site was strategically placed to provide naval protection for Bordeaux. Wander past centuries-old barracks and imposing stone walls then scale the fortifications for stunning panoramic views across the estuary. Continue onward to a local vineyard for a wine tasting, then return to your ship for dinner and an evening of entertainment.

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

4

Blaye to Libourne

Soak up the stunning vistas along the River Dordogne, before arriving at the sleepy commune of Libourne. Here, you will be whisked off to Saint-Emilion, a charming medieval village recognised for its fine wine, monuments and spectacular architecture. Your guide will provide you with the village's unique history, followed by a visit to the striking Monolithic Church, carved into the hillside from a single piece of rock. Finally, you will be welcomed into a family-owned wine estate to be taught the process of wine-making, before enjoying a tasting.

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

5

Libourne to Cadillac

This morning, cruise towards the fortified town of Cadillac, disembarking for a tour of the Chateau de Roquetaillade. Dating back centuries, the Chateau boasts a significant legacy, having been owned by the Roquetallade family since 1306. Step inside and delight in the extravagant interior, brimming with dungeons, towers and antique furnishings. On your return journey, you'll visit a Sauternes vineyard to enjoy the taste of the region's sweet white wine, before arriving back in Cadillac. Set out on foot to explore the ramparts and gates of this walled town and its central square, surrounded by antique houses. Return to your boat by coach and enjoy an evening at leisure.

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

6

Cadillac to Bordeaux

On your final full day, return to Bordeaux where you will enjoy a panoramic tour of this vibrant city and its UNESCO-listed districts. A walking tour through the Old Town takes you along the wide avenues of the neo-classical Les Quinconces quarter. Gaze at the ornate facades of buildings such as the Grand Theatre de Bordeaux then continue along the narrow streets of the Saint Pierre quarter, past the thriving shops and bistros. Soak up the city's unique energy before returning to your vessel for tonight's fun-filled gala dinner and evening entertainment.

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

7

Bordeaux to the UK

Disembark after breakfast for your airport transfer and return flight to the UK.

Breakfast

Important Information

Visas

A visa is not required for your entry into France. Further advice should be sought from the applicable tourist authority for other nationalities and for general queries. We strongly advise you check your destinations' Tourist Board or Embassy for the most up-to-date guidelines regarding passport validity.

Insurance

We strongly recommend that you and all members of your party are suitably insured as soon as you book your holiday. It is a condition of booking that you must have suitable travel insurance. It is important that you purchase travel insurance that suitably covers your participation in whatever activities you may undertake at the time that you make your booking. To assist you with this, we have arranged travel insurance in partnership with Holiday Extras. To arrange your travel insurance with Holiday Extras, please call 0800 781 4237 and quote 'WK830' for preferential rates. Please ensure you provide us with the name of your insurer, policy number and their 24-hour emergency contact number as soon as possible. Mercury Holidays will not be liable for any costs incurred by you due to your failure to take out suitable travel insurance from the date of booking.

Payment

If booking more than 10 weeks before departure a deposit of £49pp will need to be paid at the time of booking with the full amount payable at 10 weeks prior to departure. The deposit applies to adults and children. If you are within 10 weeks of travel then the full balance of the holiday will be payable.

Health and Vaccinations

It is your responsibility to check any health and vaccination requirements applicable to your booked arrangements. We can only provide general information about this. Health and hygiene facilities and disease risks vary from country to country. You should take health advice about your own needs as early as possible and in good time before your departure. Sources of information include; www.fco.gov.uk, http://travelhealthpro.org.uk/, www.hpa.org.uk, your General Practitioner or a specialist clinic.

Physical Accessibility

This cruise is accessible to most people with an average level of fitness. It involves some climbing of steep steps, and getting on and off boats. This tour is not suitable for anyone with walking difficulties.

Tour Guide

An English speaking Cruise Director will be on board your cruise to help with any queries that you may have. They will not accompany you on land, this will be your free time to explore each city at your leisure. Airport transfers will be with an English speaking driver.

Currency Information

The currency in France is the Euro, We recommend that you exchange your currency before you leave the UK, however cash machines are available in all the major cities to withdraw money in the local currency.

Personal Expenses

You will need to take some extra money with you to cover any dinners where these are not mentioned on your itinerary and personal purchases, such as souvenirs, extra drinks and snacks. Approximately £200-£300 will be sufficient for the duration of the tour.

Tour Dates & Prices

Cabin Upgrades

Treat yourself to a better vista! Cabin and Deck upgrades are available for an additional supplement. For prices and availability please call our Reservations Consultants or Book Online.

Single Cabins

If you're travelling alone single cabins are available for a small supplement. For prices and availability please call our Reservations Consultants or Book Online.

Included in the Price

Air-conditioned, en suite cabins on board our hand-picked vessels

Return flights from London. Regional flights and Eurostar are available on selected cruises.

All-Inclusive - Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily are taken onboard the ship. Tables seat 6 people, so you'll be able to converse and socialise with new friends, whilst never feeling crowded together. Tea and coffee are available on board ship as well as unlimited soft drinks and alcoholic drinks, including a variety of wines and beer, both during meals and at the bar. (Premium brands are available at an extra cost).

Entertainment on board your ship

Return transfers to/from airport/station to ship

Complete Financial Protection: Fully ABTA & ATOL protected

Additional Expenses

Visas

Insurance

Tips

Any meals not specified in your itinerary

Optional Excursions

Important Notice

The Captain and Croisieurope reserve the right to alter/modify an itinerary at any time, should safety or external circumstances make this necessary, changes are also subject to tides. Some of the highlights may only be seen on optional excursions at an additional cost, or by exploring independently.

What to expect

Fact File

Currency

Euro

Average Flying time

1 hour

Min/Max temperature

12 °C / 27 °C

When to go

Please familiarise yourself with the below weather chart.

Bordeaux

What to pack

Warm Clothes in case of cold weather (Jumper and Jacket)

Insect Repellant

Suncream and a hat with a big brim for sunny days

Comfortable shoes such as trainers

Sunglasses and plastic bags

Towel and Swimsuit

Rucksack or light bag per person

Personal toiletries and first aid kit

Travel Plug Adapter

MS Cyrano de Bergerac

81 invitingly decorated cabins. Enjoy a drink from the bar whilst relaxing on the vessel's terrace.

06th April, 05th June & 29th June departures

Princess Aquitaine

69 cabins, each with a panoramic window. A spacious sun deck, an attractive lounge space with terrace are all on offer.

21st May & 25th August departures

Onboard facilities include...

Cabins

All cabins are equipped with shower and toilet, hairdryer, satellite TV, radio, safe. Spaced across the Upper and Main Decks, all cabins are outside facing and located above the water affording outstanding views from the large picture window.

All-inclusive Dining

Your day will always begin with an impressive buffet breakfast. Chefs prepare succulent 3-course meals for lunch and dinner which are served in the onboard restaurant. Midday and evening meals are paired with excellent and carefully chosen beers and wines, included in the price. An open bar is available throughout the voyage (not including Champagne, special wines, premium spirits or fine brandies).

Life Onboard

All cruises start with a welcoming cocktail reception where you'll meet the captain, crew and staff of your ship. Facilities onboard include a comfortable lounge for your enjoyment and relaxation as well as a souvenir shop. FREE Wifi is available in lounge bar and reception. The sun deck offers a panoramic view of the landscape's beauty as you cruise.

Contact address

Travel Advice and Safety Abroad

For latest travel advice from the Foreign & Commonwealth Office including security and local laws, plus passport and visa information click hereThis advice can change so please check regularly for updates.